Daphne’s announces Kelly Slater as brand ambassador

CARLSBAD — The Carlsbad corporate office of Daphne’s California Greek has something to be happy about. They’ve recently signed on 10-time world champion surfer Kelly Slater as its new partner and brand ambassador in their commitment towards a healthier lifestyle.
The timing of Slater’s arrival is perfect. Daphne’s California Greek is launching its brand redevelopment, which hones in on eating well and staying active.
Slater, 39, will be involved in an array of ways. Slater will provide his input on healthier menu options and will be on hand for a blog and social media contributions. It’s the company’s hope that Slater’s wisdom regarding health and wellness will leave an indelible imprint.
“I’ve been looking for the right opportunity to do something with a healthy food or restaurant group,” Slater said. “I think Daphne’s has a great platform to get the word out and is right in line with a lot of my ideals about food, so I’m glad to be on board with them.”
According to Daphne’s California Greek Chief Executive Officer, William Trefethen, Slater’s involvement means everything to the company since he is the epitome of healthy living. Slater’s iconic presence will offer something unique and special.
“Kelly hardly endorses anything,” Trefethen said. “It was a long-term process to get him onboard.”
That process lasted nearly three months.
Also on his list of new duties: Slater is a founding member of Team Daphne’s, which encompasses athletes, artists, and musicians that will make a positive impact in their communities.
Slater, of course, will have his eye on surfers. He will be at the helm in recruiting a surf team of up-and-coming talented males and females.
Trefethen said their company is eager to work with Slater in supporting the surf community by sponsoring these athletes. The amateur surf team is expected to have over a dozen teammates — and a majority of them will more than likely come from California.
“This is a huge deal in the surfing word,” Trefethen said.
Because of the healthy direction the company is going with their brand, Trefethen said it was important for them to bring someone of Slater’s stature on board who would also be at the forefront for what they believe in.
Trefethen describes Slater as a perfect fit who personifies healthy living.
“Kelly is 39 years old and he just won the world tour,” he said. Slater’s winning record is an inspiration for many, he added.
Currently, Daphne California Greek has 56 establishments. Trefethen said their primary focus is providing a nutritious menu with nourishing alternatives.
“We are trying to make everything we serve even on our existing menu healthier by lowering sodium, offering whole grain substitutes, and adding a whole launch of salads which are healthy,” he said, adding how their flat bread pizzas will provide another wholesome choice.
Trefethen said Slater will make a positive impact in the company’s brand redevelopment mission of healthy living. “A lot of people respect what Kelly has to say in this area given what he has accomplished at his age,” Trefethen said. “He’s still winning championships.”